What is the latest research on alcohol consumption?

An analysis of data from more than 36,000 adults, led by a team from the University of Pennsylvania, found that light-to-moderate alcohol consumption was associated with reductions in overall brain volume. The link grew stronger the greater the level of alcohol consumption, the researchers showed.

What are some effects of alcohol on society today?

The biggest cost is loss of workplace productivity. Healthcare costs, crime and law enforcement, as well as motor vehicle crashes are also among the top alcohol-related expenses.

Does alcohol have any health benefits?

Moderate alcohol consumption may provide some health benefits, such as: Reducing your risk of developing and dying of heart disease. Possibly reducing your risk of ischemic stroke (when the arteries to your brain become narrowed or blocked, causing severely reduced blood flow) Possibly reducing your risk of diabetes.

Does alcohol age your brain?

For example, the researchers said that as average drinking among 50-year-olds increased from one alcohol unit (about half a beer) a day to two units (a pint of beer or a glass of wine), there were associated changes in the brain equivalent to aging two years.

Is alcohol good for the economy?

Excessive alcohol use is known to kill more than 140,000 people in the United States each year, but a CDC study suggests it is also a drain on the American economy, mostly due to losses in workplace productivity.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of alcohol?

Social, enjoyment, and psychological reasons were the most commonly mentioned advantages of drinking, whereas physical side effects, expense and interference with goals were the most commonly mentioned disadvantages of drinking.

Is alcohol good for the brain?

Studies have shown that moderate alcohol consumption has positive health benefits for the body and brain. A large Harvard study in 14,000 middle-aged women found that women who drank between ½ an ounce and 1 ounce of alcohol per day were more likely to remain free of chronic illness and memory loss as they aged.

Does alcohol destroy GREY matter?

Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is associated with reductions in grey matter (GM) volume which can lead to changes in numerous brain functions.

How much of alcohol is good for health?

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans defines moderate alcohol consumption as one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.

Why is the alcohol industry important?

The alcohol industry plays an important role in the development of new products (e.g., caffeinated alcohol “energy drinks” and alcopops) and the promotion of these products through sophisticated marketing techniques.

How does alcohol impact the economy?

The economic consequences of alcohol consumption can be severe, particularly for the poor. Apart from money spent on drinks, heavy drinkers may suffer other economic problems such as lower wages and lost employment opportunities, increased medical and legal expenses, and decreased eligibility for loans.

Which alcohol is best for health?

Red wine. When it comes to a healthier alcohol, red wine is top of the list. Red wine contains antioxidants, which can protect your cells from damage, and polyphenols, which can promote heart health. White wine and rose contain those too, just in smaller quantities.